YouVersion Bible App Reveals 2018’s Most Popular Verse

According to the makers of the YouVersion Bible App, Isaiah 41:10 is the most shared, bookmarked, and highlighted verse this year.

The verse reads, “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” Last year, the most popular Bible verse was Joshua 1:9 which says, “This is my command: be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go”.

“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.”

Since its launch ten years ago, YouVersion Bible app has been downloaded over 350 million times worldwide. It offers over 1800 versions available in more than 1250 languages. This year, users listened to about 4.2 billion chapters, while 27.2 billion were read. This is 40% and 62% year-over-year growth.

In a statement, YouVersion founder Bobby Gruenewald said the data revealed that people all over the world still rely on reading the Bible to find hope, comfort, and encouragement. “We’re humbled that 10 years after its release, people continue to use the YouVersion Bible App in record numbers to connect with God’s Word.”

Overall, Bible engagement is growing quickly. For instance, the app recently added a Japanese version and saw 104% year-over-year growth of Bible engagement in Japan. Romania also posted an increase of 100%. The fastest-growing countries in terms of Bible engagement are Chile (79%) and Argentina (60%). The app likewise posted an increase of 27% in daily active users compared to 2017. The app comes with Bible Plans that help users develop the habit of reading the Bible every day. This year, the users finished over 950 million Bible Plans. This translates to an increase of 59% compared to figures last year.

this generation is on track to becoming the most engaged with the Bible.

Since its release in 2013, YouVersion’s Bible App for Kids has seen continuous growth. It now offers animated stories and interactive games in 42 languages. This year, the app saw an increase of 55% in the number of apps installed, reaching almost 27 million devices all over the world.

According to Gruenewald, this generation is on track to becoming the most engaged with the Bible. They also think that new technologies are needed to further help kids and adults alike in connecting with the Scripture.

Gruenewalk likewise added that while many have the ability to read the Bible, there are a lot of people who don’t have the opportunity. That’s why they’re releasing Bible versions in different languages. “We’re honored to be a part of how God is reaching people around the globe through His Word, and we’re eager to see how Bible-engaged people make a difference in this world for decades to come,” he added.

Joyce has more than 15 years experience writing news, industry articles and blogs for the private and public sectors. Most of her career was spent writing technical documentation for a software company in the Philippines.
She earned a B.A. in Communication Arts with a concentration in writing from the University of the Philippines, Los Baños. During her leisure time, Joyce pursues her interest in reading fiction and playing with her dogs. She can be contacted at Joyce@onechristianvoice.com.